Unlike human hospitals, not all animal hospitals are required to be accredited.

Accredited hospitals are the only hospitals that choose to be evaluated on approximately 900 quality standards that go above and beyond basic state regulations, ranging from patient care and pain management to staff training and advanced diagnostic services. AAHA-accredited hospitals are recognized among the finest in the industry, and are consistently at the forefront of advanced veterinary medicine. AAHA standards are continuously reviewed and updated to keep accredited practices on the cutting edge of veterinary excellence.

Pet owners look for AAHA-accredited hospitals because they value their pet’s health and trust the consistent, expert care provided by the entire health care team. At AAHA-accredited practices, pet owners can expect to receive the highest quality care from well-trained, professional veterinary teams.

Only the top small animal hospitals in the United States and Canada have achieved accreditation by the Association. To maintain accredited status, Northstar Animal Care must continue to be evaluated regularly by AAHA.

Northstar Animal Care, located at 1600 West 5th Ave., can be reached at 614-488-4121 and www.columbusvetcare.com.

]]>Valentine’s Day Dangers for Your Petshttp://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/index.php/valentines-day-dangers-for-your-pets/
Fri, 01 Feb 2013 22:12:36 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=139Continue reading Valentine’s Day Dangers for Your Pets→]]>With Valentine’s Day drawing near, there will be temptations all around – for both humans and our pets! Below are a few of the common Valentine’s Day toxins.

1. Roses

Although roses don’t often cause serious poisoning beyond gastrointestinal upset, there’s risk for trauma to the mouth and paws from the thorns. Additionally, if a large enough portion of the rose head or stem is ingested, a bowel obstruction may result.

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2. Lilies

Lilies are frequently sold in fresh boquets; the most common bouquet lilies include the Stargazer lily, Tiger lily, and other Asiatic lilies. These lilies are extremely toxic to cats and can cause acute kidney failure. The ingestion of just one to two leaves or petals is enough to cause sudden kidney failure.

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3. Chocolate and Cocoa

Probably the most classic Valentine’s Day treat, chocolate can be toxic to pets. Chocolate and cocoa contain Theobromine, a chemical similar to caffeine that is highly toxic to dogs and cats. When it comes to chocolate, the darker or more concentrated the chocolate, the more Theobromine it contains. Therefore, the most dangerous chocolates are baker’s chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, and gourmet dark chocolates. Don’t forget about milk chocolate: it can also be toxic if large enough amounts are ingested Due to the large amount of fat in chocolate, some pets may develop pancreatitis after eating chocolate or baked goods containing chocolate.

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4. Gift Wrapping Ribbons and Accessories.

We want the gift we give our special someone to look spectacular. We adorn the package with curly ribbons, a tag or a bow for that extra special touch. After the gift has been opened, be sure to dispose of any and all wrappings properly. Kitty may like playing with these items when you are done with them, but unsupervised play can lead to a trip to the veterinarian! An item such as curling ribbon can cause a foreign body in the stomach or intestine, which may require surgical intervention.

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These are just a few of the many known toxins to pets. Other items include raisins, Xylitol (artificial sweetener found in gum), Macadamia nuts, espresso beans, grapes, and avocados. To keep your home safe for your pets, keep medications out of reach, remove lilies from your home and place things like chocolate and gum inside a cabinet rather than in a candy dish. Prevention is key!

]]>Winter Skin & Paw Care Tipshttp://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/index.php/winter-skin-paw-care-tips/
Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:40:06 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=652Continue reading Winter Skin & Paw Care Tips→]]>
•Repeatedly coming out of the cold into the dry heat can cause itchy, flaking skin. Keep your home humidified and towel dry your pet as soon as he comes inside, paying special attention to his feet and in between the toes.

•Trim long-haired dogs to minimize the clinging of ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry on the skin. (Don’t neglect the ha…ir between the toes!)

•Bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet to remove ice, salt and chemicals—and check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes.

•Bathe your pets as little as possible during cold spells. Washing too often can remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If your pooch must be bathed, ask your vet to recommend a moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse.

•Dressing your pet in a sweater or coat will help to retain body heat and prevent skin from getting dry.

•Booties help minimize contact with painful salt crystals, poisonous anti-freeze and chemical ice-melting agents. They can also help prevent sand and salt from getting lodged in between bare toes, causing irritation. Use pet-friendly ice melts whenever possible.

•Pets burn extra energy by trying to stay warm in wintertime, sometimes causing dehydration. Feeding your pet a little bit more during the cold weather and making sure she has plenty of water to drink will help to keep her well-hydrated, and her skin less dry.

•Remember, if the weather’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. Animal companions should remain indoors as much as possible during the winter months.

Holly, Jolly and Oh-So-Safe! Of course you want to include your furry companions in the festivities, pet parents, but as you celebrate this holiday season, try to keep your pet’s eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible. And be sure to steer them clear of the following unhealthy treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations:

O Christmas Tree Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.

Tinsel-less Town
Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.

No Feasting for the Furries
By now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising fur kid will go to chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.

Dogs have been known to tear their toys apart and swallowing the pieces, which can then become lodged in the esophagus, stomach or intestines. Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible.

Long, stringy things are a feline’s dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that’s too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer—and tons of play sessions together.

Forget the Mistletoe & HollyHolly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies, can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.

Leave the Leftovers
Fatty, spicy and no-no human foods, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry friends. Pets can join the festivities in other fun ways that won’t lead to costly medical bills.

That Holiday Glow
Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!

Wired UpKeep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet’s mouth.

House Rules
If your animal-loving guests would like to give your pets a little extra attention and exercise while you’re busy tending to the party, ask them to feel free to start a nice play or petting session.

Put the Meds Away
Make sure all of your medications are locked behind secure doors, and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.

Careful with Cocktails
If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.

A Room of Their Own
Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.

New Year’s Noise
As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears.

‘Tis the season for friends, family and holiday feasts—but also for possible distress for our animal companions. Pets won’t be so thankful if they munch on undercooked turkey or a pet-unfriendly floral arrangement, or if they stumble upon an unattended alcoholic drink.

Check out the following tips from ASPCA experts for a fulfilling Thanksgiving that your pets can enjoy, too.

Talkin’ Turkey
If you decide to feed your pet a little nibble of turkey, make sure it’s boneless and well-cooked. Don’t offer her raw or undercooked turkey, which may contain salmonella bacteria.

Sage Advice
Sage can make your Thanksgiving stuffing taste delish, but it and many other herbs contain essential oils and resins that can cause gastrointestinal upset and central nervous system depression to pets if eaten in large quantities. Cats are especially sensitive to the effects of certain essential oils.

No Bread Dough
Don’t spoil your pet’s holiday by giving him raw bread dough. According to ASPCA experts, when raw bread dough is ingested, an animal’s body heat causes the dough to rise in his stomach. As it expands, the pet may experience vomiting, severe abdominal pain and bloating, which could become a life-threatening emergency, requiring surgery.

Don’t Let Them Eat Cake
If you’re baking up Thanksgiving cakes, be sure your pets keep their noses out of the batter, especially if it includes raw eggs—they could contain salmonella bacteria that may lead to food poisoning.

Too Much of a Good Thing
A few small boneless pieces of cooked turkey, a taste of mashed potato or even a lick of pumpkin pie shouldn’t pose a problem. However, don’t allow your pets to overindulge, as they could wind up with a case of stomach upset, diarrhea or even worse—an inflammatory condition of the pancreas known as pancreatitis. In fact, it’s best keep pets on their regular diets during the holidays.

A Feast Fit for a Kong
While the humans are chowing down, give your cat and dog their own little feast. Offer them Nylabones or made-for-pet chew bones. Or stuff their usual dinner—perhaps with a few added tidbits of turkey, vegetables (try sweet potato or green beans) and dribbles of gravy—inside a Kong toy. They’ll be happily occupied for awhile, working hard to extract their dinner from the toy.

The holidays are stressful enough without having to worry about a potentially poisoned pet. Below is a list of holiday-related decorations, plants and food items that the veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline recommend keeping away from pets.

* Holiday Ornaments: When decorating for the season, consider your pets. Holiday decorations such as bubble lights may contain poisonous chemicals. If your pet chews on them the liquid inside could be dangerous to their health. Methylene chloride, the chemical in bubble lights, can result in depression, aspiration pneumonia and irritation to the eyes, skin and gastrointestinal tract.

* Tinsel: If you own a cat, forgo the tinsel. What looks like a shiny toy to your cat can prove deadly if ingested. Tinsel does not pose a poisoning risk but can cause severe damage to a cat’s intestinal tract if swallowed. Ultimately, cats run the risk of severe injury to, or rupture of their intestines and treatment involves expensive abdominal surgery.

* Plants: Though they have a bad rap, poinsettia plants are only mildly toxic. Far more worrisome are holiday bouquets containing lilies, holly or mistletoe.

“Lilies, including tiger, Asiatic, stargazer, Easter and day lilies, are the most dangerous plants for cats,” said Dr. Ahna Brutlag, assistant direct of Pet Poison Helpline. “The ingestion of one to two leaves or flower petals is enough to cause sudden kidney failure in cats.”

Other yuletide pants such as holly berries and mistletoe can also be toxic to pets and can cause gastrointestinal upset and even heart arrhythmias if ingested.

* Alcohol: Because alcohol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, it affects pets quickly. Ingestion of alcohol can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar, blood pressure and body temperature. Intoxicated animals can experience seizures and respiratory failure. Additionally, foods such as desserts containing alcohol and unbaked dough that contains yeast should be kept away from pets as they may result in alcohol toxicity, vomiting, disorientation and stomach bloat.

* Holiday Foods: With the holiday season comes a delightful variety of baked goods, chocolate confections and other rich, fattening foods. However, it is not wise (and in some cases is quite dangerous) to share these treats with your pets. Keep your pet on his or her regular diet over the holidays and do not let family and friends sneak in treats. Foods that can present problems include:

Foods containing grapes, raisins and currents (such as fruit cakes) can result in kidney failure in dogs.

Chocolate and cocoa contain theobromine, a chemical highly toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion in small amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhea but large amounts can cause seizures and heart arrhythmias.

Many sugarless gums and candies contain xylitol, a sweetener which is toxic to dogs. It causes a life-threatening drop in blood sugar and liver failure.

Leftover, fatty meat scraps can produce severe inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) leading to abdominal pain, vomiting and bloody diarrhea.

* Imported Snow Globes: Recently, imported snow globes were found to contain antifreeze (ethylene glycol). As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze when ingested by a cat or a tablespoon or two for a dog (depending on their size), can be fatal. Signs of early poisoning include acting drunk or uncoordinated, excessive thirst, and lethargy. While signs may seem to improve after eight to twelve hours, internal damage is actually worsening, and crystals develop in the kidneys resulting in acute kidney failure. Immediate treatment with an antidote is vital.

* Liquid Potpourri: Filling your house with the smell of nutmeg or pine for the holidays may seem inviting, but if you’re partial to heating your scented oils in a simmer pot, know that they can cause serious harm to your cat; even a few licks can result in severe chemical burns in the mouth, fever, difficulty breathing, and tremors. Dogs are not as sensitive, but it is still better to be safe than sorry, so scent your home with a non-toxic candle kept safely out of kitty’s reach.

When it comes to the holidays, the best thing a pet owner can do is get educated on common household toxins and pet-proof your home accordingly

[Courtesy: disabeledworld.com/serviceanimals]

]]>Finding a lost Pethttp://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/finding-a-lost-pet.aspx
Mon, 05 Nov 2012 16:36:34 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=642Continue reading Finding a lost Pet→]]>It’s every pet parent’s nightmare: Your beloved dog or cat has gotten loose, and you don’t know where he or she is. Don’t panic—there are many steps you can take to locate your little one. Swift action, coupled with major neighborhood networking, will increase the odds of having your furry friend back in your arms! The key is to get the information out to as many people and places as you can, so enlist the help of friends and make sure to involve your entire family in the search effort.

IDs, Please It’s a good idea for all of your animal companions—even indoors-only pets—to always wear a collar with an ID tag. The ID tag should have your name and a current phone number. If you’ve chosen to microchip your pet as a means of permanent identification, keep in mind that microchips are only as good as the information provided to the chip’s company. If you’ve moved or changed your phone number since registering your pet’s chip and forgot to submit an update, please do so as soon as you can.

Hide and Seek
As soon as you notice that your pet is missing, talk to your family members or housemates and ask when they last saw your pet. It’s a good idea to search your home carefully—under beds, in closets, dark places, small places, behind bulky furniture—in case your pet may be hiding or sleeping somewhere. Shaking a food dish, treat jar or favorite toy will sometimes lure animals out of a hiding place.

If you are sure your pet is not in or around the home, take a slow ride or walk around the neighborhood. Ask friends or neighbors if they’ve seen your animal companion; be sure to bring along a recent photo to show them. Check under porches and shrubs, and ask neighbors to check in sheds and garages just in case your pet was accidentally locked in.

Work the Phones
Your first calls should be to all the animal control agencies, shelters (both municipal and private) and rescue groups in your area; one of them could have your pet in custody already. Check in with the bigger shelters daily—and pay your visits in person, if possible.

If there are no shelters close to your home, contact the police.

News Flash
Your next task? Creating a “lost pet” flyer. We recommend sticking with one design, as repeated viewings of a consistent message are more likely to stick in people’s minds. You’ll need to include a lot of info on your flyer, so use your limited space wisely:
– Start with a big, bold headline that people can read from a distance: “LOST DOG” or “MISSING CAT” is fine.
– Under the headline, a photo of your pet would be ideal. Make sure he’s still well-represented after the picture’s been photocopied or printed. List his breed, sex, color, age, weight, distinguishing features, and where and when he was last seen. It is very important that your pet is described accurately.
– Provide your name and two phone numbers; yours, of course, and a friend or family member’s in case you cannot be reached.

Blanket the Neighborhood
With your flyers in hand (and hopefully, a crew of supportive helpers), it’s time to hit the streets. Good places to post your flyers may include:
– Dog runs and parks
– Pet supply stores and pet grooming shops
– Veterinary offices
– Various commercial establishments, such as grocery and convenience stores, gas stations, Laundromats, bars, cafes and restaurants.
– Lampposts and trees. Cover extra heavily the areas where you think your pet was lost, as well as busy commercial and pedestrian sections of your town.
– Around schools, at kids’-eye level. Children can be more observant than adults, especially when it comes to animals.

Note, be sure to ask permission before posting your flyers!

Hit the ‘Net
The Internet was made for networking. Send descriptive emails about your lost pet to your local friends, colleagues and family members, and ask them to pass on the info to anyone they can. Post messages to animal forums and message boards run by groups based in your area—lots of parks and dog runs have online communities.

Don’t Give Up!
This one’s important! And remember that many lost animals have found their way back home.

]]>Cataractshttp://www.healthypet.com/PetCare/DogCareArticle.aspx?title=Cataracts
Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:49:28 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=640Continue reading Cataracts→]]>Cataracts are one of the most common eye problems affecting pets. They can affect all breeds and ages of dogs and cats, but the condition is found more commonly in certain dog breeds, such as Cockers, Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers and Terriers.

The normal, transparent lens in the eye focuses beams of light onto the retina so that your pet can see clearly. A cataract is a disruption of the normal arrangement of the lens fibers that interferes with sight by partially or completely blocking the clarity of the lens. A cataract may be quite small and not significantly interfere with your pet’s vision, but if the cataract becomes dense enough, vision may be lost.

It is not unusual for your pet’s eyes to become slightly blue-gray as they age. As a normal part of the aging process, the lens becomes thicker, making the eyes appear grayer. This condition, called nuclear sclerosis, usually occurs in dogs over six years of age and typically does not affect their vision. Therefore treatment for this condition is not recommended.

Cataracts can be hereditary or due to old age. Inherited conditions are the most common cause of cataracts and may be present at birth or develop when the animal is very young. They can also be caused by injury, or illness such as diabetes. If your pet’s cataracts are due to an underlying condition, such as diabetes, treating the condition may diminish the cataracts.

There is no effective medical treatment for cataracts. Cataracts are not painful, but when your pet has trouble navigating due to vision loss, his sight can be restored to near normal through surgery. A veterinary ophthalmologist will surgically remove the lens, replacing it with a plastic or acrylic prosthetic lens to allow for more focused vision. Cataract surgery generally has a 90-95% success rate, but it is also a very delicate procedure that requires extensive postoperative care by the pet owner.

After surgery, your pet will have to wear a protective collar (Elizabethan Collar) until his eye heals and you will need to keep him quiet and calm. Your pet will also require eye drops to be administered several times a day for a few weeks.

You and your veterinarian can decide if cataracts are affecting your pet’s vision enough to warrant surgery. For more information, consult with your veterinarian.

]]>Things You Didn’t Know Could Harm Your Pethttp://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/index.php/things-you-didnt-know-could-harm-your-pet/
Mon, 15 Oct 2012 20:04:58 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=255Continue reading Things You Didn’t Know Could Harm Your Pet→]]>We all know that chocolate is toxic to dogs. But were you aware of the host of other items that can be harmful to your pet? Take a minute to read the following list – you just might be surprised at the dangers lurking in your home. According to the ASPCA, of the 167,000 poisoning cases handled by the Animal Poison Control Center, the Number 1 culprit was human medications!!

Take a few preventative steps to prevent your pet from coming into contact with toxic items: remove toxic plants from arrangements/yard area, keep all chemicals out of reach and locked away, empty the trashcan frequently and keep the trash can behind a cupboard. Small steps such as these can keep your pet safe and healthy.

If you are concerned that your pet may have ingested something toxic, please call Animal Poison Control at 1-800-548-2423.

A stray tabby gives birth to a litter of three kittens under the lilac bush in a backyard. As she nurses them, she purrs; as they suckle, the kittens purr, too. When the queen shifts her weight to try to find a more comfortable nursing position, one of the kittens lets out a distress call, indicating he’s trapped under his mother’s weight. She readjusts herself, and the purring party continues.

One morning, the mother cat decides to move her litter to a safer spot. She deposits
the first one inside the garden shed, and goes to retrieve the next one. Detecting the absence of his mother via his sense of smell, the kitten in the shed lets out a loud distress call, distinctly meant to reunite mothers and wayward kittens.

As the kittens mature, the queen spends more time away from the nest, hunting for prey to ensure enough milk for her growing crew. Each time she returns, she gives out a “brrp” to her kittens.

When the kittens enter the weaning stage, the queen brings prey home to them, calling them over to it with a chirp. The kittens also begin to make chirping noises in anticipation for what they are about to receive. However, one night’s dinner is interrupted when Mom lets out a long, low-pitched growl. The kittens scatter and retreat to safety inside the shed before the owl overhead can snatch one for his own evening meal.

As independent hunters, cats have limited need for an extensive vocal repertory. Cat-to-cat vocalizations are generally limited to communicating with one’s kittens, one’s sexual partners and one’s potential enemies. There is also an array of vocalizations used by our furry friends when they attempt to communicate with us.

By changing volume, intensity and number of repetitions of the vocalizations and backing them up with expressive body language and olfactory signaling, cats ensure their messages are received and that their needs are met.

Purring 101

The purr is the most common sound issued by cats—and yet one of the least understood. Kittens just a few hours old begin purring as they knead their mother’s chest and nurse. The purr sound is made both on the inhale and the exhale, with an instantaneous break between breaths. Built-up pressure created by the opening and closing of the glottis results in a sudden separation of the vocal folds, creating the purr. While purring is often heard when the cat seems content, those familiar with handling cats in pain or near death know that they also purr when under duress, the reason for which is yet unknown.

The Meaning of Meow

The second most common vocalization is the meow. Rarely heard between cats, this vocalization seems tailor-made for communication between cats and humans. Early on, cats notice that meowing brings attention, contact, food and play from their human companions. Some behaviorists suggest that certain cats seem to alter their meows to suit different purposes, and that some guardians can differentiate between, say, the “I’m Hungry!” meow” from the “Let Me Out!” meow.

The meow is the most often used of the vowel patterns—vocalizations produced with the mouth first open and then gradually closing.
– The sound cats make when highly aroused by the sight of prey is called chirping.
– When a cat is frustrated (such as when an indoor cat finds he is unable to get to the birds at the feeder), you may hear him chatter.
– When a neonate kitten is cold, isolated from his mother or trapped, he issues a distress call—also sometimes called an anger wail. As the kitten matures, the distress call is used when play is too rough or the cat finds something else to protest.

A Hiss Is Just a Hiss?

All threat vocalizations are produced with the mouth held open. These sounds mirror the cat’s intense emotional state. A hiss is uttered when a cat is surprised by an enemy. A high-pitched shriek or scream is expressed when the cat is in pain or fearful and aggressive. Snarling is often heard when two toms are in the midst of a fight over territory or female attention. And a long, low-pitched growl warns of danger.

]]>Halloween Safety Tipshttp://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/halloween-safety-tips.aspx
Thu, 04 Oct 2012 21:24:00 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=634Continue reading Halloween Safety Tips→]]>Attention, animal lovers, it’s almost the spookiest night of the year! The ASPCA recommends taking some common sense precautions this Halloween to keep you and your pet saying “trick or treat!” all the way to November 1.

1. No tricks, no treats: That bowl of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy and Fluffy. Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause problems. If you do suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

2. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, but they can produce stomach upset in pets who nibble on them.

3. Wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations should be kept out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet might suffer cuts or burns, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock.

4. A carved pumpkin certainly is festive, but do exercise caution if you choose to add a candle. Pets can easily knock a lit pumpkin over and cause a fire. Curious kittens especially run the risk of getting burned or singed by candle flames.

5. Dress-up can be a big mess-up for some pets. Please don’t put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she loves it (yup, a few pets are real hams!). For pets who prefer their “birthday suits,” however, wearing a costume may cause undue stress.

6. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn’t annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal’s movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. Also, be sure to try on costumes before the big night. If your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting him go au naturale or donning a festive bandana.

7. Take a closer look at your pet’s costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that he could choke on. Also, ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.

8. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.

9. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn’t dart outside.

10. IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and becomes lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can be a lifesaver, increaing the chances that he or she will be returned to you

The death of a beloved canine family member can be devastating. Not just for us, but for the rest of the “pack” too. On top of the grief at the loss of a long-time companion, dogs can additionally suffer from a sense of dislocation when the pack structure is disturbed by the loss of a key member.

How can you help? As with all things,individual dogs will react in individual ways; however, there are some basic rules that should help your remaining dog(s) deal with their loss.

TRAINING: if you and your dog have already been through positive reinforcement training before, now’s the perfect time to refresh that bond by going back to class or having a private trainer come and work with you. If you’ve never had any organized training for your dog, now is a great time to try. The learning associate with positive training will help occupy your dog as well as reinforce the bond between you.

PLAY MORE: it’s a rare dog who doesn’t enjoy spending more one-on-one with their humans. Whether its a long walk in the park, throwing a ball or just a brief stroll to the mailbox, increasing the frequency of these activities will help to keep your dog busy as well as bringing you closer.

GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO: creating daily rituals that your dog can look forward to will help keep them engaged and looking towards the future. Whether it’s spending time with them training, a good brush-down or a regularly-scheduled walk around the block, they are all experiences your pet can learn to anticipate.

And it will help you, too!

[courtesy: Fetch]

]]>Fun Activities For Kids And Petshttp://www.aspca.org/pet-care/kids-and-pets/fun-activities-for-kids-and-pets.aspx
Mon, 24 Sep 2012 15:29:10 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=626Continue reading Fun Activities For Kids And Pets→]]>Healthy play habits between kids and family pets don’t always come naturally—children need guidance in interacting safely and respectfully with animals. Luckily the best way to learn how to play nice is to enjoy lots of great games together. ASPCA behaviorists offer some fun, age-appropriate activities that help develop trust and a loving bond between your kids and pets.

Play Time

Arrange play dates for your kids and pets—supervised by you—to help build a mutual respect in the same way that play dates between children create healthy friendships.

Activities

Kids 6 Months To 2 Years Old:

Your child can lie on the floor and your dog or cat can jump over him.

You and your child can hide and then call your pet to come find you.

Young children love peek-a-boo games. Try holding up a cloth so that your pet is concealed. Let your child pull the cloth aside, making your pet “appear.”

If your pet is gentle, your child can smear his own fingers and toes with peanut butter or a soft cheese product and let your pet lick them clean. (Try this with your fingers first. If your pet’s nibbling is too rough, choose another activity.)

Children in a high chair, crib or playpen can drop food for your pet to enjoy, but please avoid using animal treats because your child might eat them. It is also ESSENTIAL to avoid using foods that are dangerous to pets. Stick to healthy people foods such as green beans, carrot sticks, apple slices (without seeds), unsalted pretzels and plain, cooked pasta.

Kids 3 To 8 Years Old:

Your child and dog can race with each other to a designated finish line. If necessary, you can run with your dog on a leash.

If your dog likes to chase water sprayed from a hose or water gun, your child can operate the sprayer or toy gun. While you’re supervising, have your child spray the ground a few feet away from your dog and then rapidly move the stream of water away from her, along the ground. (Watch your dog for signs that she’s not having fun anymore. If she isn’t actively chasing or trying to bite the stream of water, it’s time to stop.)

Your child can blow bubbles for your pet to catch. You can purchase a bubble toy made especially for dogs, such as the Fetch a Bubble Big Bubble Blaster or the Bubble Buddy™. These toys produce flavored bubbles that are safe for dogs to ingest. Please do not use regular bubble solution. It can cause mild stomach upset and can sting your pet’s eyes.

Your child and pet can team up to find treats that you’ve hidden. While your pet can excel at finding things hidden near the ground, your child can find things hidden higher-up.

Your child can entice your pet to chase a toy tied to the end of a rope. You can also buy an inexpensive lunge whip from a horse tack or feed store and tie a ball or other toy to the end of it. Then your child can twirl the whip in a big circle and let your pet chase the toy.

Kids 9 To 13 Years Old:

Children of this age can benefit from attending basic dog obedience classes with their dogs.

Your child can play soccer-type games and Frisbee with your dog.

Some children appreciate the challenge of competing with a dog in agility or in games such as flyball.

Your child can search the Internet or library to find new tricks to teach your pet, such as Roll Over, Shake, Sit Up and Beg.

]]>17 Poisonous Plantshttp://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/17-common-poisonous-plants.aspx
Fri, 21 Sep 2012 13:52:36 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=623Continue reading 17 Poisonous Plants→]]>Lilies Members of the Lilium spp.are considered to be highly toxic to cats. While the poisonous component has not yet been identified, it is clear that with even ingestions of very small amounts of the plant, severe kidney damage could result.

Marijuana
Ingestion of Cannabis sativa by companion animals can result in depression of the central nervous system and incoordination, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, increased heart rate, and even seizures and coma.

Sago Palm
All parts of Cycas Revoluta are poisonous, but the seeds or “nuts” contain the largest amount of toxin. The ingestion of just one or two seeds can result in very serious effects, which include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures and liver failure.

Azalea/RhododendronMembers of the Rhododenron spp. contain substances known as grayantoxins, which can produce vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness and depression of the central nervous system in animals. Severe azalea poisoning could ultimately lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse.

OleanderAll parts of Nerium oleander are considered to be toxic, as they contain cardiac glycosides that have the potential to cause serious effects—including gastrointestinal tract irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death.

CyclamenCylamen species contain cyclamine, but the highest concentration of this toxic component is typically located in the root portion of the plant. If consumed, Cylamen can produce significant gastrointestinal irritation, including intense vomiting. Fatalities have also been reported in some cases.

Kalanchoe
This plant contains components that can produce gastrointestinal irritation, as well as those that are toxic to the heart, and can seriously affect cardiac rhythm and rate.

YewTaxus spp. contains a toxic component known as taxine, which causes central nervous system effects such as trembling, incoordination, and difficulty breathing. It can also cause significant gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac failure, which can result in death.

ChrysanthemumThese popular blooms are part of the Compositae family, which contain pyrethrins that may produce gastrointestinal upset, including drooling, vomiting and diarrhea, if eaten. In certain cases depression and loss of coordination may also develop if enough of any part of the plant is consumed.

Pothos
Pothos (both Scindapsus and Epipremnum) belongs to the Araceae family. If chewed or ingested, this popular household plant can cause significant mechanical irritation and swelling of the oral tissues and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract.

ScheffleraSchefflera and Brassaia actinophylla contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing and intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue in pets who ingest.

Once your veterinarian confirms that your dog or cat has diabetes, he or she will likely prescribe a daily insulin therapy for your pet.This is an important first step towards maintaining your pet’s health—but it is only part of the equation. In order for treatment to be successful, you must take an active role and administer needed insulin, and also carefully monitor your pet, since your pet’s insulin needs will likely change over time.

Monitoring is a two-part process that involves watching for changes in your pet, as well as establishing new daily habits. These habits include logging your pet’s food and water intake; tracking the insulin dose; and watching for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). In addition, you may be asked to perform urine tests and home Blood Glucose Curve tests.

Log the Basic Information

When it comes to monitoring your pet, you should keep a written log of your observations, either in a notebook or on a computer spreadsheet. If your pet’s health changes, you will want to share this information with your vet or if someone else is caring for your pet, you all want to be, literally, “on the same page.”

Here is the information you should track daily:

Amount of food and water consumed, as well as notes on overall appetite

If you notice any sign of increased drinking and urination, increased appetite or weight loss, contact your veterinarian.

Test for Glucose and Ketones

Ask your vet how often you should check your pet’s urine for high glucose. Some pet owners will need to check their pet once a day, others more often. Consistently high urine glucose readings along with excessive urination and drinking may be signs that your pet’s insulin dose needs to be changed. However, if you continue to get negative urine glucose readings, it may mean that your pet is getting too much insulin. In either case, consult your veterinarian.

Urine tests are also used to detect ketones, which are produced when your pet’s body breaks down fat for energy. Normally, your pet will get the energy it needs from its diet. However, if your pet’s diet does not contain enough carbohydrates to supply its body with glucose or if your pet cannot use glucose properly, stored fat breaks down and ketones are made.

If your pet has a positive ketone reading, and seems unhealthy (e.g., loss of appetite, weakness, etc.), contact your vet immediately. If your dog or cat seems healthy in spite of a high reading, your vet may suggest that you keep your pet at home and watch for any new symptoms.

Administer Blood Glucose Curves (BCGs)

You vet may also ask you to conduct a home blood glucose curve (BGC) to ensure your pet is producing the necessary insulin. A BGC simply means you will conduct a series of blood glucose checks and create a graph that maps the blood glucose levels of your pet over time. For instance, you will probably begin the process by charting your pet’s glucose level just before you feed and inject your pet with insulin, then check it again every hour or two hours until the next meal and injection.

Watch for Hypoglycemia

Too much insulin can cause hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose. Hypoglycemia can be a life-threatening, so learn the signs and contact your vet immediately if your pet is exhibiting any of them:

Hunger

Restlessness

Shivering

Lethargy

Weakness

Head tilting

Seeming unbalanced or wobbling when walking

Lack of muscular coordination

Disorientation

Stupor

Convulsions or seizures

Coma

Visit Your Vet Every Three to Four Months

Even if your diabetic pet seems healthy, it can develop urinary tract infections and other disorders, so make sure to visit your veterinarian every three to four months. Also, be prepared: have a pet medical kit easily available, so you can add diabetes supplies to it quickly, in case of an emergency.

]]>Dogs Can Run Out of Self Control, Too!http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/index.php/dogs-can-run-out-of-self-control-too/
Sun, 16 Sep 2012 13:36:23 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=561Continue reading Dogs Can Run Out of Self Control, Too!→]]>People are not the only creatures that run out of self control. According to a study published in Springer’s Psychonomic Bulletin,dogs can also make impulsive decisions that put them in harm’s way.

The study by Holly Miller from the University of Lille Nord de France and her colleagues wanted to know if mentally fatigued dogs do not think straight and are more likely to take risks that may result in physical harm.

The researches recruited 10 dogs and trained them to sit still for 10 minutes, thereby exerting self-control, or put them in a cage in which they were free to move. Afterward, the dogs were walked into a room in which a barking, growling dog was caged. The dogs spent 4 minutes in the room but were free to choose where in the room they spent their time. Although approaching the other dog was a natural response for the dogs, it was also the riskier choice.

Those dogs that had exerted self-control by sitting still beforehand spent more time in close proximity to the aggressive dog compared with those dogs that had been caged: 59% vs. 42%.

According to Miller and her team, the research provides evidence that the phenomenon of self-control depletion, once believed to be uniquely human, can be found in dogs.

[courtesy: AAHA Trends Magazine]

]]>Is your cat in pain?http://www.healthypet.com/blog/post/Is-your-cat-in-pain.aspx
Wed, 12 Sep 2012 11:54:01 +0000http://www.columbusvetcare.com/blog/?p=617Continue reading Is your cat in pain?→]]>Cats have a tendency to hide when they’re not feeling well, so it can be challenging to detect or see subtle changes in your cat. Their survival instinct gives them a unique ability to cover a painful condition and because cats are such masters at hiding pain, it’s a good idea to follow an established timeline for veterinary examinations.

Research has shown that many more cats are suffering from osteoarthritis than we are aware of, especially cats past the age of 11. Diagnosing osteoarthritis in cats can be difficult. Your veterinarian will rely on you to tell them about changes you’ve noticed in your cat. They may ask if your cat is moving around less, not climbing or jumping on and off of things as well and if you have noticed any changes in their behavior. Other things that you should be aware of and look for include weight loss, loss of appetite, depression; change in general attitude, poor grooming habits, and urinating or defecating outside of the litter box. A common symptom of osteoarthritis in dogs is lameness, but this symptom is not seen as often in cats.

Osteoarthritis in cats usually affects their joints including the elbows and hips, shoulders and ankles. And, the most frequently affected areas in cats is arthritis of the vertebrae and sternum. Truly, the second biggest challenge of pain management in cats is that they have a low tolerance and higher risk for toxicity to most drugs as compared to other species.

There are fewer pharmaceutical options available to treat pain and osteoarthritis in cats. Because there are fewer options, other treatments include working with your veterinarian to design a weight loss program if your cat is overweight, increasing exercise and/or play. Another area where you can make a difference for your cat is by changing things in your home including things like moving food and water dishes to a more convenient location and providing soft or therapeutic bedding. Purchasing a litter box with low sides, cutting down high sides, or constructing a ramp around the box may also help cats gain entry into the box more easily.

It’s important to be aware of changes in your cat’s behavior, especially as your cat ages. If your cat doesn’t seem to be his/her normal self discuss the changes with your veterinarian.

How many times have you been eating that chocolate chip cookie when you look over and see those sad puppy dog eyes staring at you? You remember hearing that chocolate is toxic to dogs. But what makes chocolate toxic to dogs and why is it that some dogs ingest it and don’t get sick? Here are some facts to clear up some of the confusion surrounding chocolate toxicity in dogs.

Toxic doses of theobromine are reported to be as low as 20 mg/kg, where agitation, hyperactivity and gastrointestinal signs (such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea – all which may smell like chocolate) can be seen. At doses > 40 mg/kg, cardiac signs can be seen, and include a racing heart rate, high blood pressure, or even heart arrhythmias. At doses > 60 mg/kg, neurologic signs can be seen, and include tremors, twitching, and even seizures. Fatalities have been seen at around 200 mg/kg (approximately 100 mg/lb), or when complications occur.

The amount of toxic theobromine varies with the type of chocolate. The darker and the more bitter the chocolate, the more dangerous it is to your pets. Cooking or baking chocolate and high quality dark chocolate contains between 130-450 mg of theobromine per ounce of the product, while common milk chocolate only contains about 44-58 mg/ounce. White chocolate barely poses any threat of chocolate poisoning, with only 0.25 mg of theobromine per ounce of chocolate (that said, dogs can still get sick from all that fat and sugar, resulting in pancreatitis!). This means that for a medium size dog, weighing 50 pounds it would take only 1 ounce of baker’s chocolate or 8 ounces of milk chocolate to potentially show signs of poisoning.

Considering that the average chocolate bar contains 2-3 oz of milk chocolate, it would take 2-3 candy bars to produce toxicity in a 10 lb dog. However, a single ounce of baking chocolate could produce severe toxicity in the same size dog.

So, how does chocolate make dogs sick? Theobromine causes the release of
certain substances, norepinephrine and epinephrine, that cause an increase in the dog’s heart rate and can cause arrhythmias. Other signs seen with chocolate toxicity can include increased urination, vomiting, diarrhea or hyperactivity within the first few hours. This can lead to hyperthermia, muscle tremors, seizures, coma and even death.

What should be done if a dog does ingest a toxic amount of chocolate? If it has
been less than 2 hours, the dog should be made to vomit. Unfortunately, chocolate tends to form a ball in the stomach and may be difficult to remove. Supportive care should be provided for any other signs the dog is exhibiting.
Though it may not be harmful to the dog in small quantities, it is safer to avoid
giving chocolate to dogs in general. As with everything else, it’s better to be safe than sorry.